The Vertiport, designed to blend seamlessly with the Dubai skyline, will provide passengers with a unique, efficient and comfortable travel experience in the sky.

Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum authorized the project, according to a press release.

Spanning 3,100 square meters, the vertiport will feature dedicated take-off and landing areas, aircraft charging stations, a taxi bay and parking areas, with a landing capacity of 42,000 and 170,000 passengers per year.

Built to the best global safety standards, the air-conditioned facility will be the result of a collaboration with international partners: Joby Aviation, responsible for the manufacturing and operation of the aircraft, and Skyports, overseeing the design and management of the aircraft. vertiport infrastructure. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will lead the project and integrate it with other public transport systems. The service is expected to launch in early 2026.

The air taxi, model S4 from Joby, is a sustainable, zero-emission electric vehicle capable of vertical takeoffs and landings. Equipped with six rotors and four batteries, it can travel up to 161 km at a maximum speed of 321 km/h. Designed for one pilot and four passengers, the taxi operates with significantly reduced noise levels compared to helicopters.

Mattar Al Tayer, Managing Director of RTA, said the initial phase will focus on four key locations, providing residents and visitors with a fast, safe and integrated transport solution across Dubai.

This project aligns with Dubai’s vision for multimodal connectivity, providing seamless access to other public and personal transportation options like e-scooters and bicycles, he said.

Earlier this year, RTA signed an agreement to launch the air taxi service with the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Skyports Infrastructure, a UK leader in the development of advanced air taxi infrastructure. air mobility, and Joby. Aviation, American specialist in air vehicles.

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Date of first publication: November 13, 2024, 08:11 IST